Cellular energy production outside the mitochondria via glycolysis is much less efficient. Glucose can be broken down into pyruvate (glycolysis) and subsequently lactic acid, producing just two molecules of ATP. This occurs normally when energy requirements are high such as during anaerobic exercise. However, the build-up of lactic acid causes muscle pains and provides an inefficient supply of energy production.

Supporting mitochondrial function and required co-factors and aiming to reduce damaging inflammatory processes are a key management goal. top

Psychological Factors v’s Biological Factors

The role of mind and body in health and disease are closely inter-linked. While emotional and psychological factors are certainly implicated in CFS, it is also important to remember that cytokines (immune messengers) relating to inflammation and chronic infection and certain hormonal changes are also associated with anxiety and depression. Therefore, the underlying causal inflammatory and hormonal factors may need addressing to help resolve psychological symptoms. Alongside addressing biological issues providing emotional, psychological and spiritual support and making significant lifestyle changes may be required.

Chronic Infection and Altered Immune Function

In several countries CFS has sometimes been referred to as the “Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome” and a skew in the immune system away from frontline cell-mediated immune function (Th1) towards over-active antibody production (Th2) has been noted, with a subsequent tendency to allergy and reduced ability to clear viral infection. Many cases of CFS start suddenly after an acute viral infection or may become worse after travel-related illness. A variety of antibodies have also been found in people with CFS relating to ongoing infections that the body has not fully cleared. This can establish further Th2 dominant immune-mediated inflammation.

These organisms include:

· Chlamydia Pneumoniae

· Mycoplasma pneumonia

· Lyme disease (Borrelia)

· Chlamydia Trachomatis

· Epstein-Barr Virus (Glandular fever)

· Candida (“yeast infection”)

· Herpes virus type 6

· Rickettsia species

· Coxsackie B

· Cytomegalovirus

· Toxoplasma Gondii

Several effective and well-tolerated approaches are utilised to support cell-mediated immune function and clearance of underlying pathogenic organisms, including high-dose intravenous vitamin C, 1-3 1-6 beta glucan supplementation, specific pro-biotic support and ozone auto-haemotherapy. top

Bowel Health and Integrity

The gastro-intestinal tract hosts 70% of our immune system, and plays key roles as a physical and immune interface between our dietary intake. Disordered proportions of healthy and unhealthy bacteria (dysbiosis) and a loss of the structutal integrity of bowel cell tight junctions have been associated with a variety of symptoms, from bloating, food allergy and intolerance reactions and brain fog.

Neuro-hormonal Factors

Certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and low cortisol hormone levels have all been implicated in CFS. Assessment of these factors and thyroid function may be required.

Toxicity

Some cases of chronic fatigue syndrome may be caused or worsened by chronic toxicity, such as organo-phosphate or mercury exposure. Patients who have virally-induced fatigue symptoms can also acquire toxins and chronic yeast infections due to candida albicans (thrush). We use a range of detoxification processes.

Dietary Susceptibility

There is considerable evidence that an inadequate diet can contribute to immune system dysfunction. Supporting micronutrient depletion, eating foods that release energy slowly (low GI) and maintaining an alkalizing diet may all help reduce inflammation and susceptibility to fatigue symptoms.